The Weatherford community mourns the passing of Kenneth Wayne Daniel, a devoted husband, father, coach, and mentor whose life touched countless people.
Born on April 11, 1975, in Weatherford, Oklahoma, to Richard “R.C.” and Martha Jean Daniel, Kenneth lived a life full of purpose, energy, and compassion.
Kenneth excelled academically and athletically from a young age. He graduated with the Class of 1993 from Weatherford High School, where he earned acclaim on both the football and baseball teams.
As a key contributor, Kenneth helped lead the Eagles to back-to-back State Championships in football in 1991 and 1992—an achievement he proudly celebrated throughout his life.
After high school, Kenneth pursued higher education at Connors State College, Redlands College, and ultimately Oklahoma State University, graduating in 1997.
Alongside his academic and athletic achievements, Kenneth found his lifelong partner, Jennifer Gail Makes Cry, whom he met in seventh grade.
They married on January 11, 1997, and together built a loving home in Weatherford, raising three children: Kase, Katen, and Kollinz, who were the pride and joy of his life.
Kenneth dedicated much of his life to education and mentorship.
He began his career at Washita Heights in Corn, Oklahoma, serving from 1999 to 2005 as a teacher and coach.
Kenneth earned All-State honors in softball and basketball, but beyond his accolades, he was known for guiding and inspiring students with patience, dedication, and heart.
Later, he transitioned into the pharmaceutical industry, excelling at companies such as Forest Pharmaceuticals, Purdue, Intra-Cellular Therapies, and Johnson & Johnson.
Kenneth earned multiple President’s Club awards, reflecting his work ethic and commitment to helping others.
Outside of work, Kenneth embraced life with passion. He loved the outdoors—fishing at dawn, hunting, raising greyhounds, and playing golf with friends.
His home was a welcoming space for friends and younger generations who often regarded Kenneth as a second father.
Kenneth is survived by his wife of 38 years, Jennifer Makes Cry-Daniel; his children, Kase, Katen, and Kollinz; his mother, Martha Daniel; his brother, Michael Daniel, and wife Kathryn; his Uncle Wayne Daniel and wife Jan; his in-laws, Albert and Judy Makes Cry; and many extended family members, friends, former students, and teammates.
He was preceded in death by his father, R.C. Daniel, whose legacy he proudly carried forward.
Kenneth Daniel’s death leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy endures through the lives he influenced, the love he shared, and the countless memories he created.
A celebration of Kenneth’s life will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church in Weatherford, officiated by Rev. Allen and Brian Cline.
